Chaoyuan Temple

Introducing Chaoyuan Temple

Chaoyuan Temple is located in Chaoyuan Village (Xiaoximen), Datong Street, Tong'an District. It is one of the famous Taoist temples with a long history and magnificent scale in southern Fujian. It not only has a profound Taoist cultural heritage, but is also a witness to cultural exchanges across the Taiwan Strait. It has many believers in Southeast Asia, especially in Taiwan, my country.

Chaoyuan Temple is now a district-level folk belief site open to the public and a protected cultural relic at both the municipal and district levels. The restoration of Chaoyuan Temple from its dilapidated state is largely due to the dedicated efforts of Taiwanese compatriots.

Based on the couplets on the extant Song Dynasty stone pillars, Chaoyuan Temple was first built in the Tang Dynasty. It was expanded by Xie Tunan, the pacification commissioner of Qiongzhou, in the second year of the Jiaxi reign of the Song Dynasty. It was subsequently restored and completed over the first forty years of the Ming Dynasty. The complex, facing south, comprises, from south to north, the following: the Free Life Pond, Lingxing Gate, Chaoyuan Gate (Xuantan Palace), Moon Platform, two wings, Sanqing Hall, Jade Emperor Exhibition Hall, and Tanyue Shrine. By the 1980s, only the Free Life Pond, Chaoyuan Gate, two wings, and the remains of Sanqing Hall and Jade Emperor Hall remained, covering an area of ​​over 4,000 square meters. Chaoyuan Gate, with its hip-and-gable roof and tiled raised beams, is 18.5 meters wide and 10.10 meters deep. A pair of coiled dragon stone pillars adorn the eaves corridor. To the left and right of the corridor stand two stone tablets commemorating the temple's construction in the 19th year of the Jiajing reign (1540) and the 19th year of the Yongle reign (1421). The rich and varied stone carvings on the walls and wood carvings on the roof frame retain the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty. In 1990, the two wings were restored and the Twenty-Eight Mansions reconstructed. In 1993 and 1999, with financial support from Taiwanese compatriots, the Sanqing Hall and the Jade Emperor Hall were restored, essentially restoring their original size. Chaoyuan Temple is a Taoist shrine with a long history in southern Fujian, dedicated to the Jade Emperor.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical marine monsoon climate, with its blend of mountains and rivers, natural beauty, long history and rich culture, has created tourism resources with high cultural taste, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Ziyang Pavilion, Zhugongjing, Xiangmeixuan, Xishan No. 1, Chaoyuanguan Cliff Carvings, Santai Temple, the glacier group in the river valley, Shou Bridge, Da Bridge, Ping Bridge, and Long Bridge;

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Chaoyuan Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Chaoyuan Temple is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Xiamen, known for its rich history and architectural beauty. It was originally built during the Tang Dynasty and has been renovated several times. The temple is a center for local spiritual practices, attracting both pilgrims and tourists.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Chaoyuan Temple is located in the city of Xiamen, Fujian Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. The nearest bus stops are a short walk from the temple, and it's about 15-20 minutes by taxi from the Xiamen city center. The nearest metro station is about 20-30 minutes away by bus or taxi.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Chaoyuan Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the temple is less crowded and the weather is cooler.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance to Chaoyuan Temple is free of charge. However, donations are appreciated and can be made at the temple. There are no online ticketing options as entry is open to the public.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No, tickets are not required, and no advance booking is needed to visit Chaoyuan Temple. Simply visit during the opening hours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Chaoyuan Temple can be completed in about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to explore the main hall, surrounding gardens, and smaller shrines.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main hall with its large Buddha statues and intricate carvings.
• The peaceful garden surrounding the temple, perfect for reflection and relaxation.
• The smaller shrines and statues scattered around the temple grounds.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at the temple, usually in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available upon request, but availability in other languages like English can be limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main hall offers great views of the surrounding temple grounds and the architecture.
• The temple gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially with blooming flowers.
• Near the temple entrance, you can capture the overall grandeur of the building and its surroundings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main hall to appreciate the Buddha statues and artwork, then explore the smaller shrines. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the temple garden and spend some quiet time in the peaceful surroundings.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically available, as the temple closes at 5:00 PM. There are no light shows or special tours offered at the temple.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Chaoyuan Temple can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially before 10:00 AM.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic facilities like toilets are available near the temple entrance.
• There are no food or water vendors inside the temple, but nearby shops and restaurants offer refreshments.
• There are resting areas in the garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

While the temple grounds are generally accessible, some areas may have steps or uneven paths. Elderly visitors and those with mobility issues may need assistance navigating certain areas, especially the temple's older sections.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is typically used for donations inside the temple. Some nearby shops and restaurants may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay, but cards are generally not accepted at the temple itself.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several local restaurants near the temple that serve traditional Chinese dishes and vegetarian food.
• Cafes nearby offer light refreshments and tea, perfect for a relaxing break after your visit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Many of the nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting the temple's Buddhist influences. Halal options may be found in specific districts of Xiamen, but are less common near the temple.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels around the Xiamen city center that offer easy access to Chaoyuan Temple, ranging from budget to luxury options.
• Consider staying near the Xiamen University area for convenient access to both the temple and other local attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Xiamen University is nearby and a great spot for a scenic walk or to explore historic buildings.
• The Nanputuo Temple and Gulangyu Island are also popular nearby attractions that can be visited in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few souvenir shops around the temple selling religious items like incense, statues, and Buddhist-themed trinkets. Local handicrafts and snacks are also available at nearby markets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi and ride-sharing services are the most convenient option to continue your trip.
• Public buses are available and can be a more affordable option for reaching other nearby attractions.